Many young people today know more about international pop or movie stars than about famous people in the history of their own country. Why is this? What can be done to increase young people’s interest
- PolyglotWorks Academy
- Jan 4
- 14 min read
Many young people today know more about international pop or movie stars than about famous people in the history of their own country. Why is this? What can be done to increase young people’s interest in famous people in the history of their country?
In many societies, it is increasingly common for young people to be more familiar with global celebrities than with important historical figures from their own nation. This trend is mainly caused by media influence and shortcomings in education, and it can be addressed through more engaging teaching methods and cultural initiatives.
One major reason for this phenomenon is the dominance of global media and entertainment industries. International pop stars and movie actors are constantly promoted through social media, streaming platforms and advertising, making them highly visible and relatable to young audiences. In contrast, historical figures are often presented in a distant and abstract way, usually confined to textbooks and formal lessons. Furthermore, history education in some countries relies heavily on memorisation of dates and events rather than storytelling, which can make the subject seem dull and irrelevant to students’ modern lives.
To increase young people’s interest in national historical figures, education systems and media institutions must adopt more creative approaches. Schools should incorporate interactive teaching methods, such as documentaries, historical films and project-based learning, to make history more engaging. In addition, museums and cultural organisations could use digital technology, including virtual reality and social media campaigns, to present historical personalities in a way that appeals to younger generations. For example, short videos or online series highlighting the personal struggles and achievements of national heroes could help students connect emotionally with their country’s past.
In conclusion, young people’s greater awareness of global celebrities is largely due to media exposure and uninspiring history education. By modernising teaching methods and promoting historical figures through digital platforms, societies can foster a stronger interest in national history among the younger generation.
A Comprehensive Guide to IELTS Writing Task 2
IELTS Writing Task 2 is the most important part of the IELTS Writing exam because it contributes more to the final writing score than Task 1. In this task, candidates are required to write an academic-style essay in response to a given question. The essay must be at least 250 words long, and it should be completed in approximately 40 minutes. Task 2 assesses a candidate’s ability to present ideas clearly, develop arguments logically, use appropriate academic language, and demonstrate accurate grammar and vocabulary.
In IELTS Writing Task 2, candidates are usually asked to respond to a social, educational, economic, or environmental issue. The task types vary, but the most common ones include opinion essays, discussion essays, problem–solution essays, advantage–disadvantage essays, and mixed or two-part question essays. Regardless of the task type, the candidate must address all parts of the question carefully. Failure to fully answer the question is one of the most common reasons for receiving a low score.
An opinion essay requires the candidate to clearly state whether they agree or disagree with a given statement and to support their opinion with logical reasons and relevant examples. A discussion essay, on the other hand, asks the candidate to discuss both sides of an issue and sometimes give their own opinion. In problem–solution essays, candidates must identify the causes of a problem and suggest effective solutions. Advantage–disadvantage essays focus on evaluating the positive and negative aspects of a situation, while two-part questions require separate answers to two related questions within one essay. Understanding the task type is essential because it determines the structure and content of the essay.
A well-written IELTS Task 2 essay follows a clear and logical structure. It usually consists of four to five paragraphs: an introduction, two or three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should paraphrase the question using different words and structures, and it should clearly state the writer’s position or outline what the essay will discuss. A strong introduction sets the tone for the entire essay and shows the examiner that the candidate understands the task.
The body paragraphs are the most important part of the essay. Each body paragraph should focus on one main idea only. This idea should be clearly stated in a topic sentence at the beginning of the paragraph. After that, the idea should be developed using explanations, reasons, and examples. Examples can be general or hypothetical; personal examples are allowed but should be written in a formal, academic style. Ideas should be logically connected, and unnecessary repetition should be avoided. A well-developed body paragraph demonstrates the candidate’s ability to explain and support ideas effectively.
The conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay and restate the writer’s position, but it should not introduce any new ideas. A clear and concise conclusion leaves a strong final impression and shows that the candidate can organize ideas coherently.
IELTS Writing Task 2 essays are assessed using four criteria: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Task Response refers to how well the candidate answers the question and develops their ideas. Coherence and Cohesion focus on the logical organization of ideas and the use of linking words and phrases. Lexical Resource evaluates the range and accuracy of vocabulary, while Grammatical Range and Accuracy assess the variety and correctness of sentence structures.
To achieve a high band score, candidates should use a range of vocabulary accurately, including topic-specific words, but they should avoid memorized phrases and overly complex language that may cause errors. Grammar should include a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences. Errors are acceptable at higher band levels, but they should not interfere with meaning or be too frequent.
Time management is also crucial in Writing Task 2. Candidates should spend a few minutes analyzing the question and planning their ideas before writing. Writing without a plan often leads to unclear arguments and poor organization. It is also important to leave a few minutes at the end to check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes.
In conclusion, IELTS Writing Task 2 requires clear thinking, strong organization, and accurate use of English. Success in this task depends on understanding the question, choosing the correct essay structure, developing ideas logically, and using appropriate academic language. With regular practice, careful analysis of questions, and focused improvement on vocabulary and grammar, candidates can significantly improve their performance in IELTS Writing Task 2.
2025 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions and Band 9 Answers
For a long time art has been considered an essential part of all cultures in the world. However, nowadays people’s values have changed, and we tend to consider science, technology and business more important than arts.
What do you think are the causes of this?
What can be done to draw people’s attention to art?
Throughout history, art has played a vital role in shaping cultural identity and human expression. Yet in modern times, priorities have shifted towards science, technology, and business, which are often viewed as more practical and profitable. This change, in my view, results largely from economic pressures and rapid technological development. However, there are effective ways to restore the value of art in contemporary life.
One of the main reasons for this shift is the growing importance of economic security in a competitive world. People increasingly choose fields that promise stable income and career growth, which the arts rarely guarantee. Moreover, governments and media tend to celebrate technological innovation and business success far more than artistic achievement. As a result, art is often seen as a luxury rather than a necessity, leading younger generations to pursue practical disciplines instead of creative ones.
Nevertheless, several measures could reignite public interest in the arts. Schools should integrate art education more deeply into their curricula, helping students appreciate creativity from an early age. Public funding and exhibitions can also make art more accessible, showing its relevance to everyday life. Additionally, collaboration between artists and digital industries could demonstrate that art and technology are not opposites but complementary forces shaping modern culture.
In conclusion, the decline in the perceived importance of art stems mainly from financial concerns and the dominance of science and business. Yet, through education, public investment, and creative partnerships, society can revive its appreciation of artistic expression. Ultimately, recognising the value of art is essential for preserving both cultural heritage and human imagination.
2025 IELTS Questions and Band 9 Answers
100 Real Band 7, 8 + 9 IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Samples
The IELTS exam is the most trusted English proficiency test in the world. It opens up opportunities for studying, advancing your career, and immigrating to different countries. Every year, more than 3 million people take this exam, which assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English through four skill areas.
2025 IELTS Questions and Band 9 Answers represent the pinnacle of English language mastery. Achieving Band 9 demonstrates near-native fluency and positions you among the top 1% of test-takers worldwide. Universities, employers, and immigration authorities recognize this score as evidence of exceptional English communication skills.
This article provides you with authentic 2025 IELTS questions paired with detailed Band 9 answers across all four exam components. You'll discover:
Real speaking topics with model responses showing natural conversation flow
Writing task samples demonstrating sophisticated language use and perfect task achievement
Reading strategies for identifying key information with precision
Listening techniques for capturing essential details accurately
Each Band 9 answer includes comprehensive analysis explaining why it achieves the highest score. You'll learn specific vocabulary choices, grammatical structures, and organizational patterns that examiners reward with top marks.
Whether you're targeting university admission, professional certification, or visa requirements, these Band 9 answers serve as your blueprint for IELTS success in 2025.
100 Real Band 7, 8 + 9 IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Samples
Understanding the IELTS Exam in 2025
The IELTS exam 2025 keeps its basic format, but with improved scoring criteria that require candidates to be more accurate. This globally recognized test of English language proficiency assesses your skills through four separate sections, each created to evaluate specific communication abilities crucial for success in academics and professional settings.
The Four Core IELTS Test Components
1. Listening (30 minutes + 10 minutes transfer time)
Four sections with increasing difficulty levels
Academic and everyday social contexts
Multiple question types including multiple choice, form completion, and matching
2. Reading (60 minutes)
IELTS Academic: Three long passages from academic sources
IELTS General: Varied texts from workplace, social, and general interest materials
Question formats range from True/False/Not Given to summary completion
3. Writing (60 minutes)
Task 1: Data interpretation (Academic) or letter writing (General)
Task 2: Essay response to argument or problem
Both tasks require sophisticated IELTS writing useful vocabulary and complex structures. Mastery of connecting ideas effectively is also essential for success.
4. Speaking (11-14 minutes)
Part 1: Personal questions and familiar topics
Part 2: Individual presentation on given topic
Part 3: Abstract discussion related to Part 2 theme
Band 9 Characteristics: The Gold Standard
To achieve an IELTS score of 9, you must demonstrate expert-level English proficiency across specific criteria:
1. Fluency and Coherence
Natural, effortless communication without hesitation
Logical sequencing of ideas with appropriate linking
2. Lexical Resource
Wide range of vocabulary used naturally and precisely
Rare minor errors that don't impede communication
3. Grammatical Range and Accuracy
Full flexibility with complex structures
Error-free communication with natural language patterns
4. Task Achievement/Response
Complete satisfaction of all task requirements
Sophisticated idea development with relevant examples
The difference between basic English vs IELTS English becomes clear when looking at these descriptions - Band 9 performance goes beyond just functional communication to show linguistic sophistication similar to educated native speakers.
IELTS Speaking Section for Band 9
The IELTS speaking test consists of three distinct parts, each designed to evaluate different aspects of your English communication skills. Understanding the specific demands of each section helps you prepare strategically for achieving that coveted Band 9 score.
The Three-Part Structure and Requirements
IELTS speaking part 1 serves as your introduction to the examiner, lasting 4-5 minutes with questions about familiar topics like your home, work, studies, or hobbies. You need to provide clear, direct answers while demonstrating natural conversation skills.
IELTS speaking part 2 challenges you with a cue card topic requiring a 2-minute monologue. You receive one minute to prepare notes before speaking continuously about the given subject. This section tests your ability to organize thoughts quickly and maintain fluent speech without interruption.
IELTS speaking part 3 extends the part 2 topic into abstract discussions lasting 4-5 minutes. The examiner asks more complex questions requiring analytical thinking, opinion expression, and detailed explanations about broader societal issues.
and 9 Speaking Characteristics
Achieving Band 9 requires mastery across four key criteria:
Fluency and Coherence: You speak smoothly without hesitation, self-correction, or repetition. Your ideas flow logically with appropriate linking phrases and natural pausing patterns.
Lexical Resource: You demonstrate sophisticated vocabulary usage with precise word choices, idiomatic expressions, and natural collocations. Paraphrasing comes effortlessly without affecting meaning.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Complex sentence structures appear naturally in your speech with minimal errors that don't impede communication.
Pronunciation: Clear articulation, appropriate stress patterns, and natural intonation help convey meaning effectively.
ample Band 9 Response Analysis
Consider this IELTS speaking part 2 response about describing a memorable journey:
"I'd like to talk about a fascinating train journey I took through the Swiss Alps last summer. What made this experience particularly memorable was the breathtaking scenery that unfolded outside my window - snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and charming villages nestled in the valleys."
Achieving Band 9 in IELTS Writing Tasks
The IELTS writing section requires different approaches for its two tasks, each needing specific skills and strategies to achieve the desired Band 9 score. Knowing these differences is crucial for excellent performance in both academic and general training formats.
Writing Task 1: Academic Excellence in Data Description
IELTS writing task 1 academic band 9 examples show precise analytical skills when describing visual information. You need to demonstrate your ability to identify key trends, make meaningful comparisons, and present data systematically. Band 9 responses in Task 1 exhibit:
Accurate data interpretation with specific figures and percentages
Sophisticated vocabulary for describing trends (fluctuate, plateau, surge, plummet)
Complex sentence structures that link multiple data points seamlessly
Clear organization following a logical sequence from overview to detailed analysis
When dealing with IELTS writing pie chart questions or line graphs, your response must go beyond simple description. You should synthesize information, group related data, and highlight the most significant features without merely listing numbers.
Writing Task 2: Essay Mastery for Band 9
Writing task 2 band 9 essay samples reveal sophisticated argumentation and comprehensive task response. Your essays must address every aspect of the question while maintaining a clear position throughout. Essential characteristics include:
Complete Task Response
Address all parts of the question thoroughly
Present a clear position that remains consistent
Develop ideas with relevant examples and evidence
Demonstrate critical thinking beyond surface-level responses
Exceptional Organization and Flow
Logical paragraph structure with clear topic sentences
Seamless connections between ideas without repetitive linking words
Balanced development of main points
Natural progression from introduction through body paragraphs to conclusion
Language Precision and Range
Wide vocabulary used naturally and appropriately
Complex grammatical structures employed accurately
Minimal errors that don't impede communication
Academic tone maintained throughout
Key Differences Between Tasks
Task 1 focuses on objective reporting and data analysis, requiring you to remain neutral while presenting factual information. Task 2 demands subjective analysis, personal opinions, and argumentative skills. The time allocation differs significantly
Excelling in the IELTS Listening Section for a Band 9 Score
The IELTS listening test consists of four distinct sections, each presenting unique challenges that require specific preparation strategies. You'll encounter conversations between two people in everyday social contexts, monologues set in social situations, conversations among multiple speakers in educational or training contexts, and academic lectures or talks.
Question Types and Their Demands
The listening section features diverse question formats that test different comprehension skills:
Multiple choice questions require you to select correct answers from given options
Matching exercises demand connecting information across different categories
Plan/map/diagram labeling tests your ability to follow spatial descriptions
Form/note/table/flow-chart completion challenges your skill in identifying specific details
Sentence completion tasks assess your understanding of key information within context
Strategic Approaches for Maximum Comprehension
Prediction techniques form the foundation of successful listening practice tests. You should read questions thoroughly before each section begins, identifying keywords and anticipating the type of information you need to capture. This preparation allows your brain to filter relevant details from the audio stream.
Active listening strategies, such as those outlined in this guide, separate Band 9 candidates from lower scorers. You must train yourself to recognize paraphrasing - the audio rarely uses identical words to those in the questions. Speakers often express the same concept using synonyms or different grammatical structures.
Note-taking efficiency becomes crucial during longer monologues and lectures. Develop a personal shorthand system using abbreviations and symbols. Focus on capturing key information rather than attempting to write complete sentences, which can cause you to miss subsequent details.
Time management skills require careful attention to question numbering and section transitions. You receive 30 seconds between sections to preview upcoming questions. Use this time strategically to scan for keywords and prepare your mind for the content shift.
The listening audio plays only once, making concentration and quick information processing essential skills. Regular practice with authentic materials helps develop the mental agility needed to process information at native speaker speed while simultaneously reading questions and recording answers.
Scoring Band 9 in the IELTS Reading Section
The IELTS Reading section presents you with three passages of increasing difficulty, each accompanied by 13-14 questions that test your comprehension skills across multiple formats. Understanding these question types becomes essential for achieving that coveted Band 9 score.
Question Types You'll Encounter
True/False/Not Given questions require you to identify whether statements align with the passage content, contradict it, or lack sufficient information for determination. These questions test your ability to distinguish between explicit information and inference.
Multiple choice questions present you with several options where only one correctly answers the question based on the passage. Success depends on your ability to eliminate distractors and identify precise matches.
Matching headings tasks challenge you to pair paragraph content with appropriate titles from a given list. This question type evaluates your skill in identifying main ideas and distinguishing them from supporting details.
Sentence completion and summary completion questions test your understanding of specific information while requiring you to maintain grammatical accuracy in your responses.
Essential Skills for Band 9 Performance
Skimming and scanning techniques form the foundation of effective time management. You need to quickly grasp the general meaning of passages while locating specific information without reading every word.
Vocabulary recognition plays a crucial role in comprehension. Band 9 candidates demonstrate understanding of synonyms, paraphrases, and context clues that help decipher unfamiliar terms.
Time allocation strategies separate high scorers from average performers. You should spend approximately 20 minutes per passage, allowing time for both answering questions and transferring responses to the answer sheet.
Critical thinking skills enable you to analyze relationships between ideas, understand implicit meanings, and distinguish between facts and opinions presented in academic texts.
Answer prediction before reading options helps you focus your search and avoid confusion from misleading distractors that commonly appear in IELTS reading materials.
Incorporating various types of reading skills into your preparation can also significantly enhance your performance in this section.
Comprehensive Preparation Strategies for Achieving Band 9 in All Sections
Creating a structured approach to IELTS preparation requires equal attention to all four components. You cannot achieve Band 9 by excelling in just one or two sections while neglecting others. A balanced study plan allocates specific time blocks for Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking practice throughout your preparation period.
Building Your Daily Study Routine
Your daily English practice should incorporate elements from each section:
Morning sessions: Focus on Reading comprehension and IELTS vocabulary building
Afternoon practice: Dedicate time to Writing tasks and grammar refinement
Evening activities: Engage in Speaking practice and Listening exercises
The key lies in consistency rather than marathon study sessions. Spending 30-45 minutes on each section daily proves more effective than cramming multiple hours into one component.
Leveraging Mock Tests and Practice Materials
IELTS speaking mock test sessions provide invaluable experience with the actual test format. You should practice with questions that mirror the 2025 exam structure, focusing on current topics and contemporary issues. Many platforms offer full IELTS course free online resources that include authentic practice materials.
When selecting practice tests, prioritize those featuring:
Recent question formats from 2025
Detailed band score descriptors explanations
Audio recordings with various accents for Listening practice
Sample essays demonstrating band 9 vocabulary usage
Targeted Skill Development
Your vocabulary expansion should focus on IELTS words that appear across multiple sections. Academic terms, descriptive language, and topic-specific terminology enhance your performance in both Writing and Speaking components. Resources like fastrack IELTS programs often provide curated word lists organized by frequency and importance.
Writing IELTS course materials should emphasize essay structure, coherence devices, and advanced grammatical constructions. Practice analyzing IELTS description tasks to understand how Band 9 responses demonstrate sophisticated language use while maintaining clarity and precision.
Regular self-assessment using official band score descriptors helps you identify specific areas requiring improvement, ensuring your preparation targets the exact criteria examiners use during evaluation.
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